Australian cricket star Glenn Maxwell is no stranger to creating headlines with his explosive batting, clever off-spin, and electric fielding. Now, as Australia prepares for the third and decisive T20I against South Africa, Maxwell stands on the brink of joining an elite group in cricket history. He is just four wickets away from completing a remarkable double 2,500+ runs and 50 wickets in T20 Internationals a feat achieved by only three other players in the game.
The Elite Club He’s Chasing
So far, only three cricketers have managed to cross the 2,500-run and 50-wicket mark in T20Is:
- Shakib Al Hasan (Bangladesh) – 2,551 runs, 149 wickets
- Mohammad Hafeez (Pakistan) – 2,514 runs, 61 wickets
- Virandeep Singh (Malaysia) – 3,013 runs, 97 wickets
Maxwell, with 2,754 runs already to his name, has 46 wickets and now needs just four more scalps to enter this rare company. For a player known primarily for his batting fireworks, this achievement would further underline his value as a genuine all-rounder.
Maxwell’s T20I Career Numbers
Since making his T20I debut in 2012, Maxwell has been one of Australia’s most impactful white-ball players. Here’s a snapshot of his record so far:
- Matches: 121
- Runs: 2,754
- Batting Average: 29.29
- Strike Rate: 156.03
- Centuries: 5
- Fifties: 11
- Highest Score: 145*
- Wickets: 46
- Bowling Average: 30.08
- Best Bowling: 3/10
These numbers tell the story of a player who can single-handedly change the course of a match with bat or ball, and the upcoming AUS vs SA 3rd T20I could be another perfect stage for him to showcase that ability.
Recent Form in the Series
In 2025, Maxwell has played five T20Is so far, scoring 90 runs at a staggering strike rate of 195+ and taking three wickets with the ball. In the ongoing series against South Africa, he has been involved with both bat and ball, even dismissing South African captain Aiden Markram with a sharp delivery in the Powerplay during the second T20I.
Maxwell’s versatility has been on display he has batted at different positions depending on the team’s needs and bowled crucial overs to break partnerships. His spectacular boundary catch in the first T20I was a reminder of his unmatched agility and presence of mind on the field.
Why This Milestone Matters
Reaching 2,500 runs and 50 wickets in T20Is is more than just a statistical achievement. It reflects consistency, adaptability, and the rare ability to contribute in multiple departments over a long period. With the 2026 T20 World Cup just months away, Australia will be relying heavily on players like Maxwell who can balance the side with both bat and ball.
For Maxwell, this milestone would be a testament to his longevity and all-round brilliance. While he has already cemented his place as one of the most entertaining cricketers of the modern era, this record would add yet another jewel to his crown.
Also Read: India Squad for Asia Cup 2025
The Stage is Set – Third T20I
The series is currently tied 1–1, making the third T20I a winner-takes-all encounter. With the match carrying both series glory and personal significance for Maxwell, all eyes will be on him. A spell of four wickets could see him etch his name alongside some of the game’s greats in the 2,500 runs–50 wickets club.
Given his knack for rising to big occasions, it would surprise no one if he manages to cross the milestone in style perhaps with a couple of crucial wickets and a blazing cameo with the bat.
Conclusion
Glenn Maxwell’s career has been a rollercoaster of breathtaking performances and match-winning moments. As he stands just four wickets away from joining the elite 2,500 runs–50 wickets club, the cricketing world awaits another chapter in his remarkable journey.
Whether or not he reaches the milestone in the third T20I, Maxwell has already established himself as one of the most impactful T20 players of all time. But if he does, it will be yet another reminder that the “Big Show” is more than just an entertainer — he’s a complete cricketer whose name belongs among the greats.